The Fighting Irish, now 12-0, beat USC 22-13 Saturday night to earn a berth in the title game.
After the game they boarded a flight and returned to campus around 6 this morning. But the early hours didn't stop their fans from welcoming the team home. As the team buses pulled onto campus dozens of fans started cheering at the top of their lungs. Notre Dame Student Maria McGuire was one of those cheering. "It's just so exciting that we're number one and we're going to the National Championship game," said McGuire.
The excitement had fans waking up early to catch a glimpse of the team at the airport. Fan Brandon Fry was at the airport wearing leis to support Manti Te'o "I was one years old last time they were number one and just finally excited that they're number one and relevant while we're alive and able to go to their games," said Fry.
Fans also stood outside in the cold for the chance to slap hands with players as they walked back onto campus. Notre Dame Student Jamie O'Donogue said, "this doesn't happen everyday."
Even long after the players had stepped off the bus the excitement over Notre Dame's undefeated season continued. Fans on Eddy Street were buzzing about the win against USC. ""I can't believe we live here and they're number one," said Hannah Lindley.
That excitement is sure to continue for a long time. "There's just a buzz in the air. You can tell Irish fans are excited," said Melissa Scott. And Alyssa Jose said, "everyone has this excitement and this feeling that we really wanna win and make Notre Dame popular for Football again."
